4 Tips on managing kids party RSVP's

Its common etiquette to put a RSVP date on your childs birthday party invitations, and most parents will come back to you confirming if their little one is able to make it (or not) before the deadline date. But how do you cope with parents who do not respond in time, or dont even respond at all? Check out these tips on dealing with latecomers and non-responders.

It’s common etiquette to put a RSVP date on your child’s birthday party invitations, and most parents will come back to you confirming if their little one is able to make it (or not) before the deadline date.

But how do you cope with parents who do not respond in time, or don’t even respond at all?

4 Tips on managing kids party RSVP's

Check out these tips on dealing with latecomers and non-responders.

1. Have extras of everything

When you're planning your kids party, it pays to allow for a few extras for any last minute guests.

If the party is at home, there may be plenty of room for that extra child who shows up that didn’t RSVP, but you may not have prepared enough party food or enough party bags for them to take home.

The problem is that it would be hurtful to turn the child away when they arrive, just because their parents didn’t RSVP.

It is not the child’s fault. So it’s always a good idea to have a few extra things on hand for those that may not have responded.

2. Managing siblings

Another problem is when a child shows up for the party with his or her uninvited sibling.

In this case, mention to the parent that you have only prepared for the guests that received and RSVP'd to the invitations.

Mention that you do not want to make their child feel bad by turning them away, so they are welcome to stay, but you don't have any extra party bags etc for them to take home like the other kids.

3. Paying for extra guests

Things can become awkward if a child turns up unexpectedly at a party venue you have hired, especially when you've had to pre-pay for the kids attending.

In this instance, if parents haven't RSVP'd in time, make it clear that there's no guarantee that their child will be able to stay for the party, due to the venue's health and safety policies, venue capacity etc. Additional costs may also be incurred.

If you can, when you're booking the venue, ask what their policy is about including extra guests on the day, so you're fully prepared.

4. Chase up outstanding RSVP's

If you can, it's always good to contact parents who haven't RSVP'd in time just to confirm if their kids are coming to the party (or not!).

They may have been busy or have completely forgotten to reply, and most won't be offended that you've called them to check.

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